The upgraded Town Beach building is home to Marine Rescue Port Macquarie and Salty Crew Kiosk.

Port Macquarie-Hastings mayor Peter Besseling and Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Stacey Tannos officially opened the building on February 20.

Mr Tannos said the upgraded facility provided up to date technology and fit-out for members to carry out their responsibilities in a safe and effective manner.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council spent $396,000 on the building upgrade.

Marine Rescue Port Macquarie completed the fit-out of its section of the building at a cost of about $300,000.

Cr Besseling said the building upgrade provided for a practical building that was very pleasant to look at.

“We had to provide something that was functional, good value for money, and at the same time, make sure it was attractive and in keeping with the foreshore,” he said.

“What we have achieved ticked all of the boxes.”

The building, before the upgrade, was in a state of gradual deterioration as a result of concrete cancer and exposure to corrosive salt and extreme weather.

Mr Tannos acknowledged the support of the council, the state government, the community and tradies.

He said the building was good for Marine Rescue.

“I believe that we should be in these types of surrounds up and down the coast,” Mr Tannos said.

The state government provided $40,000 towards the radio base fit-out.

Marine Rescue Port Macquarie unit commander Neil Yates said the upgraded facility had helped the members be able to respond to call-outs in a very professional and safe manner.